A new scheme offering undocumented migrants permission to stay in Ireland will open at the end of the month.

In a statement, Justice Minister Helen McEntee confirmed the process will be open for six months.

Undocumented people who have been in Ireland for more than four years can apply. This is reduced to three years if they have kids.

Successful applicants will be given access to the labour market, permission to stay in Ireland and a potential path to citizenship.

Those with existing deportation orders or those on expired student visas can apply if they meet the time requirement.

Applicants must meet standards of good behaviour and character and must not pose a threat to the state.

The Justice Minister has described the scheme as a “once in a lifetime opportunity”.